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Cast Iron Oven-Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Recipe

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3.9 from 82 reviews

This Cast Iron Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets cooked to tender, flaky perfection using a combination of stovetop searing and oven roasting. Enhanced with simple seasonings like sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil, and finished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, it’s a quick and flavorful dish ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)

Seasoning & Garnish

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for finishing the salmon after searing.
  2. Dry the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear on the fish.
  3. Season the Fillets: Season both sides of the salmon fillets evenly with sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat and add olive oil or melted butter, swirling it to coat the bottom evenly.
  5. Sear the Salmon: Once the skillet is hot but not smoking, carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) to avoid oil splatters and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a golden crust.
  6. Flip and Oven Finish: Flip the salmon fillets using a spatula, then immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven to finish cooking.
  7. Bake to Doneness: Bake the salmon in the oven for 6 to 8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135°F, ensuring the salmon is cooked through but still moist and tender.
  8. Rest the Salmon: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for 1 to 2 minutes to retain juices and improve texture.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Garnish the salmon with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges to add brightness and freshness to the dish.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat the salmon dry to get a crispy sear on the skin or surface.
  • Adjust the oven cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets to avoid overcooking.
  • Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and excellent searing capability.
  • If you prefer, substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Always check salmon’s internal temperature with a food thermometer for safe and perfect doneness.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat